S
Sibylle S.
Scout
ScoutHigh Sierra RV Park
Small campsites
Very friendly staff. The sites are rather narrow but even. Restrooms are far away. Propane is available.
Camping near Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park hosts multiple established campgrounds for visitors seeking proximity to iconic park features and hiking trails. Upper Pines, North Pines, and Lower Pines campgrounds occupy central locations in Yosemite Valley, offering tent and RV sites with basic amenities like drinking water and toilet facilities. Outside the valley, Tuolumne Meadows Campground provides higher elevation camping during summer months. For visitors seeking more comfort, Curry Village offers canvas tent cabins and hard-sided cabins with prepared beds and shared bathrooms.
Campground reservations remain extremely competitive, particularly during the peak season from late spring through early fall. "It is hard to get a camping spot in Yosemite but well worth it if you do," noted one visitor who secured a site at North Pines. Most valley campgrounds operate seasonally, with Upper Pines maintaining the longest operating season from February through December. Water availability, fire restrictions, and wildlife concerns dictate camping practices throughout the park. Bear-resistant food storage is mandatory at all sites, with food lockers provided at established campgrounds. Facilities vary by location, with most offering vault or flush toilets but limited shower access restricted to certain areas like Curry Village.
The valley campgrounds provide strategic access to popular hiking trails and park attractions. North Pines campers appreciate riverside locations, with one visitor highlighting: "I had a great view of Half Dome and it felt amazing to be near all this majestic granite." For those seeking alternatives to traditional tent camping, Curry Village provides canvas tent cabins with varying comfort levels. Several reviewers mention the proximity to trails as a key advantage, though some note crowding and noise issues during peak periods. Campers seeking more solitude might consider Goat Meadow dispersed camping area outside park boundaries, which offers free camping with limited amenities but requires self-sufficiency for water and waste management. Generator use restrictions, quiet hours, and limited cell service are consistent considerations throughout the camping areas.
Campground Showdown near Yosemite National Park, CA
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Best Camping Sites Near Yosemite National Park (399)
1. Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
66 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA1 mileWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$36 / night
"Had a great weekend going to Yosemite national park, either way if the temperature was low"
"Close to Happy Isles and Mirror Lake/Meadow, this campground is convenient for day hikers. it's one of the better spots in Yosemite Valley, somewhat off the beaten path, so to speak."
2. Camp 4 — Yosemite National Park
39 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA3 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$60 / night
"These are walk-in sites for tents only and are on a per person basis ( It fills up really fast ) parking is available adjacent to the campground, you will need a parking permit."
"This iconic campground, situated in the middle of Yosemite Valley, was once home to many of America's early rock climbing pioneers. "
3. Wawona Campground — Yosemite National Park
41 ReviewsWawona, CA11 milesWebsite+1 (209) 375-9535$36 - $75 / night
"Wawona is within the gates of Yosemite National Park, and is about 25 minutes away from the valley floor - it’s not too far of a drive, but it’s on the windy mountainous Highway 41 into Yosemite."
"The river and swimming holes are close by and accessible to all, sites have ample space between each other, there are clean restrooms, and all sites have their own bear box."
4. North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
23 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$48 / night
"Very great campsite located right in the heart of Yosemite National Park. Hard to get reservations unless you plan way ahead which we do every year but we'll work it."
"There is a shuttle stop right outside the campground. You are also in easy walking distance to the path to Mirror Lake and the ever popular Mist Trail."
5. Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
20 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-8502$36 - $60 / night
"Bathrooms were clean, access to drinking water was easy. Park shuttle is nearby and easy to get around."
"There is only a small area next to the paved parkway that is flat for our 6-person tent. But this is a Yosemite campground, we would take whatever campsite available. Restroom is clean."
6. Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site
47 ReviewsFish Camp, CA16 milesWebsite"The site is right outside Yosemite National park. It is perfect for car camping as it is a large parking lot. There is a dumpster and it’s fantastic for viewing the stars."
"After accidentally driving to this location following the directions of another reviewer for the “Yosemite Boondocks” campground across 41 (which we never found) we were very happy with this location."
7. Yosemite Creek — Yosemite National Park
16 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (209) 379-2123$24 / night
"As an overall experience, I give the Yosemite Creek, and the Yosemite National Park overall amazing experience and would highly recommend it!"
"The campground was easy to find, conveniently located within the park, spacious and very clean. I was a little nervous about bears, but there is a bear locker for every site."
8. Curry Village — Yosemite National Park
14 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (888) 413-8869$98 - $300 / night
"Best part is the location, which gives direct access to some of the most popular trails -- Happy Isles to Mist Trail, Mirror lake, etc. It has a nice family friendly vibe."
"The location is perfect for all the Valley trails. There is a shuttle right outside. There are several campgrounds here."
9. Tuolumne Meadows Campground — Yosemite National Park
28 ReviewsLee Vining, CA15 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-4025$36 - $75 / night
"Tuolumne Meadows Campground is located in Yosemite National Park in the Central California's Sierra Nevada Mountain. Its elevation at 8000 plus feet gives you the chance to see beautiful scenery."
"This campground is located outside of Yosemite Valley, so it has less of the “Disneyland of the Sierra” feel—more serene and fewer people and buses."
10. Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground — Yosemite National Park
11 ReviewsYosemite Valley, CA2 milesWebsite+1 (209) 372-0200"For people with mobility issues, this site is a good walk away from the inner valley trails, fine for anyone else who is up for walking distances, because that is why you came to Yosemite!"
"Beautiful campground, unfortunately right next to the trail, but very spacious and also has bathrooms and picnic tables right there!"
Recent Camping Photos near Yosemite National Park
668 Photos of 399 Yosemite National Park Campgrounds
Elliott B.
Curry Village — Yosemite National Park
John P.
Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
Grace M.
Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
Shari G.
North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park
Anna C.
Yosemite Valley Backpacker's Campground — Yosemite National Park
Kuo G.
Housekeeping Camp — Yosemite National Park
Crystal B.
Camp 4 — Yosemite National Park
Elliott B.
Bridalveil Creek Campground — Yosemite National Park
Matt S.
Dewey Point Backcountry Site — Yosemite National Park
Anna C.
Sunrise Lakes Backcountry Camp — Yosemite National Park
Elliott B.
Royal Arch Lake Campsite — Yosemite National Park
The Dyrt
Tamarack Flat Campground — Yosemite National Park
Recent Reviews near Yosemite National Park
1739 Reviews of 399 Yosemite National Park Campgrounds
Art C.
TravelerSierra National Forest Rancheria Campground
Rancheria Sierra Camp
Overall great experience. Lots of tree coverage, with a beautiful lake just a walk away. If you want a more secluded area, I’d recommend getting a site closer to the 100’s area. Not a fan of how close our campsite at 79 was to another site. I felt guilty being outside past 10, with them going to sleep. There was no firewood for sale at the time we went ( early June ) and our campsite host was “off” for the duration of our stay which made getting a trailer out of our parking a bit difficult initially. We also found out they don’t allow amplifying speakers ( any speaker ) as we had a complaint made against us for having the music on. Which in our defense, in the morning when we played it, we didn’t believe it to be too loud. Other than a few hitches, it was an overall good experience, and I’d highly recommend it if you want a wooded camping experience!
Tom H.ScoutYosemite Pines RV Resort & Family Lodging
Very misleading Website
Website says Luxurious sites, spacious sites. Our site was extremely narrow, sat on a hillside, unlevel, difficult to hook/unhook a 5th wheel because of the downhill. We booked a site for a 30 foot 5th wheel. After my negative review, they posted that LARGE trailers and 5th wheels might have issues??? 30 foot is not large. Our lawn chairs were literally 6 feet from our neighbors sewer hook up and our picnic table sat at about a 30 degree slope. They also said the staff tried to resolve my issues, which never happened. They have a lot of amenities, laundry, pool, etc. But the sites we saw were pretty much like ours. Make your own decisions, form your own opinions, but we'll never go back, nor will we recommend it to anyone.
Weston C.ScoutParadise Shores RV Park
Fun vibe, fair price!
Easy to check in, sports are sizable. It’s an Rv park so the spots are side to side, communal firepit by the lake is really cool. Pet friendly as well. Would recommend!
Kelly I.TravelerCrane Flat Campground
Great location
This was a great spot for a quick stay. Restrooms, camping and good spaces between others. Would definitely stay here again!
M H.ScoutHigh Sierra RV Park
Fraudulent business practices
I made a campsite reservation, later changed the dates, and ultimately had to cancel. The cancellation was made both by phone and email more than 7 days before the scheduled arrival date.
I understand and accepted the $5 reservation change fee and the $10 cancellation fee outlined in their policy. However, instead of refunding the remaining balance, they kept the entire amount and issued no refund whatsoever.
As a result, I have initiated a credit card dispute. I would strongly recommend reviewing their cancellation policies and billing practices carefully before booking.
- TThomas K S.Scout
Mono Vista RV Park
Well kept and friendly owners
Stayed here for six days from May 26, and it was neat and clean. Great sites, no dirt, mostly grass. Just a wonderful stay. Will come again. The only downside is they take no credit cards, only cash and checks, so you have to send a check 14 days ahead of time. They had quite a few vacancies, we called in the day before we arrived, and had no issue, and luckily had my checkbook with me, which is a rarity
N P.ScoutBarrett Cove Merced Irrigation District
Great fun
We have spent summers here on the water for the last 3 years. The site has a convenience store and a restaurant that serves up a really great burger. Also a very short drive into town.
Angela Jerel G.ScoutPark of the Sierras - Escapee Park
SKP Park of the Sierras exceeded our expectations
We stayed at SKP Park of the Sierras for two months during April and May and thoroughly enjoyed our stay. To use the park, you'll need an Escapees membership(about$50), which we found well worth the cost given the quality of the facilities and amenities.
Originally, we were only able to reserve one month at a time, but when our circumstances changed, the office staff were incredibly understanding and worked with us to extend our stay. The staff throughout the park were welcoming, friendly, and helpful.
Our site was spacious, shaded by mature trees, and included full hookups and a concrete patio area that was perfect for setting up chairs and relaxing outdoors. The grounds were well maintained, and the park was surprisingly quiet during our stay. The amenities were excellent. The clubhouse hosted daily activities, and there was a library, games, fitness area, coffee station, and a donation-based thrift shop section. The laundry facilities were clean and well maintained, and quarters were available for purchase in the office during business hours.
Traveling with dogs, we especially appreciated the dog park. It featured separate fenced areas for large and small dogs, water spigots, covered areas for rainy weather, and even a heater for chilly mornings.
The shower facilities were clean and comfortable. They sold propane onsite. Fuel was conveniently located just down the road at the casino, often at reasonable prices. For our longer stay we would drive into Oakhurst or Fresno for groceries, so it's worth planning ahead for larger grocery runs.
One of the biggest advantages of this park is its location. It served as an excellent home base for exploring Yosemite National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, Monterey Bay, San Francisco, and Pinnacles National Park,(we don’t mind a long drive!).
We used Starlink throughout our stay and were pleased by how well it worked. Even with a tree-filled site, it was able to find enough open sky to maintain a reliable connection.
A few things future guests should know: some of the roads have tighter curves, but the staff are very knowledgeable about matching RVs to appropriate sites. Our 25-foot trailer had no issues. Mail and package delivery can also require some planning. As guests, we had mail sent to General Delivery at the Coarsegold Post Office. However, we later learned that FedEx would not deliver there, so packages shipped by different carriers may require different delivery addresses. It's worth confirming shipping methods before ordering anything important.
Overall, SKP Park of the Sierras exceeded our expectations. The spacious sites, excellent amenities, quiet atmosphere, friendly staff, and central location made it one of our favorite long-term stays. We would gladly return and highly recommend it to other RV travelers.
Guide to Yosemite National Park
Yosemite camping areas range from 4,000 to over 8,000 feet in elevation, creating distinct camping experiences and temperature variations of 10-20 degrees between valley and high country locations. At Tuolumne Meadows Campground, situated at 8,600 feet, nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer, while daytime highs reach the 70s. The diversity in elevation also means campers can experience dramatically different ecosystems within a single trip.
What to do
Fishing at Yosemite Creek: Located near Tioga Road, this campground offers access to creek fishing. "The sites are pretty nice! The one I had was not the largest, but it was flat and secluded which I loved. They all seemed to have picnic tables and a bear box for your food," wrote Sam M. Yosemite Creek Campground provides access to beautiful hikes and fishing spots within walking distance.
Horseback riding adventures: Near North Pines Campground, you'll find horse stables for guided rides. "Great location right in the middle of Yosemite Valley. Great access to beautiful hikes and scenery. The camp sites are spacious. Because it's an equestrian campground, you will smell the horses and stables...be prepared," mentions Norina N. Rides range from 2-hour valley floor tours to full-day excursions, with prices starting at $50 per person.
Snowplay adventures: During winter months, Goat Meadow offers a designated snow play area. "When I was there recently, some of the 'campsites' had 0-3", whereas other spots were about 6-8" of snow. I was the only one in the actual snow, which was great," notes Alexander Mark C. The area becomes popular for sledding and snow activities, particularly during weekends.
What campers like
Proximity to trails: Upper Pines Campground campers appreciate easy access to popular hikes. "Great location, close by many amazing hikes! Make sure to make a reservation in advance, we were lucky enough to get 2 nights but we took some of the last spots," says Alexis P. The campground connects to several trailheads directly from the sites, eliminating the need to drive to start your hike.
River access for swimming: Wawona Campground offers refreshing river swimming opportunities during hot summer months. "Jump in the creek for a swim or walk across the road and check out the covered bridge and barn around the pioneer history center. Swimming holes all up and down those creeks," explains Kelly M. The South Fork Merced River features several calm swimming areas with natural pools just steps from campsites.
Evening activities and programs: Camp 4 offers community-building opportunities. "At the morning time campers are really friendly and my neighbors made me pancakes," shares Phillip L. Many campgrounds host ranger-led evening programs at amphitheaters, with topics ranging from wildlife to astronomy, typically starting at 8:30 pm during summer months.
What you should know
Bear management is mandatory: Every campsite in Yosemite requires proper food storage. "Each site contains a fire pit (no grill), picnic table, and four shared food lockers and is near a bathroom with drinking water and flushing toilets," explains a reviewer at Camp 4. Bears actively patrol campgrounds, especially at dawn and dusk.
Dispersed camping rules: Goat Meadow provides free camping outside park boundaries. "Close to Yosemite entrance, which was great. Stayed about a week which also crossed over Memorial Day weekend. Arrived the Tuesday before. This place gets CROWDED," warns Katelin M. Though free, the area lacks facilities and requires packing out all trash.
Heated tent cabins alternative: When temperatures drop, Curry Village offers heated accommodations. "We were expecting foam rubber mattresses on wooden plywood shelves for beds, but the bed frame, mattresses, pillows and Rumpl blankets were a nice surprise," notes Ron G. Heated cabins maintain comfortable temperatures even when outside temperatures drop below freezing.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve river sites for natural play areas: Families particularly enjoy riverside locations. "Our site was located right next to the comfort station, and in hindsight I wish we had found a place a little farther away. But besides the proximity, our site was nice with a fire pit and picnic table," shares Erin S. from North Pines. Sites along the Merced River create natural entertainment for children.
Consider Wawona for less crowding: Wawona Campground offers a more relaxed atmosphere than valley locations. "More spacious than those 'in the valley.' Semi-private. Looked like some sites were more ideal than others. River near sites," notes Benjamin C. The campground sits about 45 minutes from valley attractions but provides a quieter family experience.
Pack extra blankets for elevation camping: High-country camping requires preparation for cold nights. "This section of the park, while not as popular as the Valley, is arguably just as beautiful, and is much easier to secure camping. The elevation here means that it gets fairly cold at night, even during the summer," advises Les R. about Tuolumne Meadows. Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common at higher elevations.
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: RV camping at Yosemite National Park comes with strict generator hours. "We had a nice open camping spot. It was at the edge of Yosemite Valley. The only downside to the spot was everyone else had a RV and had their generators on at 6am," notes Sarah F. from North Pines. Generator use is restricted to 7-9 am, noon-2 pm, and 5-7 pm at most campgrounds.
RV length limitations: Large rigs face challenges at most Yosemite campgrounds. "Heavily wooded area. Great location to get to all the hikes. Good location to be in the valley. Sites are tight would not recommend a rig over 30," advises Rick L. about Upper Pines. Most valley campsites accommodate RVs up to 35 feet, with limited options for larger rigs.
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds offer dump facilities with seasonal availability. "There is a spot to RV dump and fill water. This was free when I was there (FEB) but it was clearly being renovated so might be pay in future," mentions Christine W. Upper Pines provides the most reliable year-round dump station near the entrance to the campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make reservations for Yosemite National Park campgrounds?
How do I make reservations for Yosemite National Park campgrounds?
Reservations for most Yosemite campgrounds must be made well in advance—up to 5 months ahead for popular sites like Upper Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park. Make reservations through recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777. The competition is fierce, especially for summer dates, so mark your calendar and be ready when the booking window opens. Some campgrounds like North Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park require planning a year ahead. A limited number of first-come, first-served campgrounds exist, but they typically fill by early morning, especially during peak season.
What amenities are available at Yosemite campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Yosemite campgrounds?
Yosemite campgrounds generally offer basic amenities including potable water, vault or flush toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and food storage lockers (bear boxes) which are essential and required for use. Tuolumne Meadows Campground — Yosemite National Park offers beautiful scenery at 8,000+ feet elevation. Hodgdon Meadow Campground — Yosemite National Park provides bear boxes and basic facilities. Most campgrounds do not have showers, electricity, or RV hookups. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many sites. Some campgrounds have nearby general stores for basic supplies, though selection varies seasonally.
What are the best times of year to camp in Yosemite National Park?
What are the best times of year to camp in Yosemite National Park?
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best overall camping experience in Yosemite, though this is also the busiest period. Tioga Lake Campground near the eastern entrance sits at 9,800 feet elevation and is typically accessible from June through September. Weather varies dramatically by elevation—Ellery Campground can see temperatures as low as 25°F even in June at higher elevations. Fall brings fewer crowds and beautiful colors, while winter camping is limited to Lower Pines. Spring offers waterfalls at peak flow but potential for variable weather conditions.
What private campgrounds are available near Yosemite when park campgrounds are full?
What private campgrounds are available near Yosemite when park campgrounds are full?
When Yosemite campgrounds are full, several private options await nearby. High Sierra RV Park offers full hookups, though some sites may require careful maneuvering for larger RVs. Mother Lode Fairgrounds in Sonora provides grassy full hookup sites with easy access to the historic mining town. For dispersed camping, Goat Meadow - Dispersed Camp Site just outside the park offers a large parking lot ideal for car camping with dumpster access and excellent stargazing. Summerdale Campground near the South entrance features a peaceful setting with a stream and requires advance reservations.
What are the best campgrounds inside Yosemite National Park?
What are the best campgrounds inside Yosemite National Park?
For valley views and central location, Camp 4 — Yosemite National Park is popular with climbers and offers walk-in sites. Lower Pines Campground — Yosemite National Park provides exceptional valley access with sites suitable for various camping setups. For a high-country experience with stunning alpine meadows, Tuolumne Meadows offers a cooler retreat from summer heat. North Pines features creekside sites perfect for summer swimming. Upper Pines, the largest valley campground, offers convenient access to major trailheads and attractions.
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